Data Management

Data management is the practice of keeping research data accessible and intelligible during and after a research project is complete. Well-managed data is essential for researchers in all fields and can have immediate and lasting effects. 

Short-Term Effects of Data Management 

• Improved Organization: Well-managed data is easier to locate, understand, and use in current projects. 

• Enhanced Collaboration: Clear data documentation enables smoother collaboration with colleagues, ensuring everyone has access to accurate information. 

• Increased Efficiency: Proper management saves time by reducing the need to reorganize, clean, or re-collect data. 

• Compliance with Funding Requirements: Many funding agencies require data management plans, making this crucial for securing grants. 

Long-Term Effects of Data Management 

• Data Longevity: Managed data remains accessible and usable over time, preserving it for future research. 

• Reusability: Readily available data can be reused for new projects, saving resources and fostering innovation. 

• Support for Published Findings: Properly maintained data can back up published research, aiding in verification and reducing the risk of retraction. 

• Increased Transparency: Accessible data improves scientific transparency and reproducibility, strengthening trust in research outcomes. 

• Career Advancement: Consistent data management can enhance a researcher's reputation and credibility, leading to more opportunities and recognition in the field. 

Research data exists in many forms; your project may involve numerical, textual, visual/audiovisual, or geographic data. You may have created software programs, algorithms, scripts, or other code which will be essential to save. Researchers who aggregate or collect their material over extended periods of time can also benefit tremendously from good data management practices.

This guide is intended to educate researchers on best practices for managing data, and to provide resources for the UIC community.